Hiking

Today, about half of the 18,225 acres of Midewin are open to the public, including over 34 miles of trails. About 22 miles of trail are for shared use by hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians. Over 12 miles of trails are for hiking only. Bicycles, horses, and leashed dogs are restricted to designated trails at all times. Visitors and trail users are welcome to the open areas of Midewin every day of the year from 4 am until 10 pm.

Picnic tables and portable toilets are available at all trailheads. There are currently no sources of water at Midewin other than at the Midewin Welcome Center. Bulletin boards located at all trailheads are regularly updated with important information. Please check for the latest news before heading out on the trail. Enjoy your visit.

Self-guided hikes

Self-guided hikes through these areas & trails are a screen-tap away on your smartphone. View our self-guided hike app.

Trailhead Coordinates

Iron Bridge Trailhead: 41°22'43.9"N 88°07'23.0"W
River Road Seedbeds: 41°20'32.2"N 88°10'16.5"W
Wauponsee Trailhead: 41°23'36.5"N 88°00'23.4"W
Hoff Road Trailhead: 41°23'35.5"N 88°04'38.0"W
Buttonbush Pond: 41°20'42.2"N 88°10'39.8"W
Prairie Creek Woods Trail:
- Beginning of trail: 41°20'37.6"N 88°10'18.5"W
- End of trail: 41°20'53.3"N 88°10'19.0"W
Turtle Pond: 41°22'45.0"N 88°04'31.6"W
Explosives Road: 41°22'02.9"N 88°08'37.1"W